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Medi-Cal Asset Limits
Medi-Cal Asset Limits Returned Jan. 1, 2026
Act Now to Protect or Re-establish Your Eligibility
You CAN still qualify for Medi-Cal. There are Still Legal Ways to Spend down Excess Assets without triggering a 3-year waiting / look back period
What’s Changed on January 1, 2026?
Medi-Cal reinstated the “Asset Test,” reducing limits back to $130,000 for individuals and $195,000 for couples — plus exempt assets.
That means any gifts or transfers made after January 1, 2026 may trigger a three-year look-back period, delaying or disqualifying your eligibility for Long-Term Care Medi-Cal.
Lost Your Medi-Cal Coverage? … There are Still Legal Ways to Spend down Excess Assets without triggering a 3-year waiting / look back period.
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Common Questions About the Return of Medi-Cal Asset Limits
What are the Medi-Cal asset limits in California for 2026?
Beginning January 1, 2026, California reinstated Medi-Cal asset limits for most long-term care applicants. The limit is $130,000 in countable assets for an individual and $195,000 for a married couple, in addition to certain exempt assets such as a primary residence, one vehicle, and personal belongings.
Why did California bring back Medi-Cal asset limits in 2026?
California temporarily eliminated the Medi-Cal asset test in 2024 to expand eligibility. Under a new state budget agreement, the asset test returned in 2026 to control program costs and refocus eligibility on individuals with limited financial resources.
Can you still qualify for Medi-Cal if you have more than $130,000 in assets?
Yes. In many cases, individuals can still qualify for Medi-Cal through legal planning strategies that restructure or spend down excess assets without violating eligibility rules. An experienced Medi-Cal planning attorney can help determine which assets are countable and what options may protect eligibility.
Will Medi-Cal review asset transfers after the 2026 rule change?
Yes. Under the reinstated rules, certain asset transfers or gifts may trigger a three-year look-back period. If assets were transferred improperly, Medi-Cal may delay eligibility or impose a penalty period before benefits begin.
What assets are exempt from Medi-Cal limits in California?
Certain assets typically remain exempt from Medi-Cal eligibility calculations, including:
- The applicant’s primary residence
- One vehicle
- Household goods and personal belongings
- Certain retirement accounts in payout status
However, each situation is different, and asset classification can affect eligibility.